Where Kids Can Run, Play, and Explore
Living in the central region of Okinawa offers families a unique blend of coastal beauty, safe neighborhoods, and abundant outdoor amenities. For international residents raising young children, finding large parks with engaging play equipment can be especially valuable. In this article, we highlight five of the best parks in central Okinawa, each chosen for its spacious play areas, variety of equipment, and family-friendly amenities that make everyday outings both enjoyable and convenient.
1. Nakagusuku Park (中城公園) – Nakagusuku Village
🗺 Location: 1319 Noborimata, Nakagusuku, Nakagami District, Okinawa 901-2421
🚗 Parking: Free
Nakagusuku Park stands out as a major family attraction in central Okinawa. It features a vast, multi-level playground with bouncy surfaces, zip lines, rope bridges, spiral slides, towers, and toddler areas with cushioned corners for added safety. The park sits atop a hill offering glimpses of the ocean. Large lawns, shaded seating, stroller-friendly trails, and clean restrooms make it perfect for a full family day.
Top features:
- Adventure-style equipment for various ages
- Spacious lawns for outdoor games and picnics
- Scenic views, shade, and accessibility
2. Araha Beach Park (アラハビーチ) – Chatan Town
🗺 Location: 2 Chome-16-2 Chatan, Nakagami District, Okinawa 904-0116
🚗 Parking: Free
Araha Beach Park combines seaside charm with an iconic pirate-ship playground. Kids enjoy climbing nets, slides, bridges, and rubberized surfaces for safety. A paved boardwalk runs along the beach, perfect for strollers, scooters, and bikes. The park’s location near American Village makes it easy to pair your visit with dining or shopping. There are also barbecue facilities and a basketball court right by the water.
Top features:
- Iconic pirate ship playground by the sea
- Safe and spacious play zones with cushioned surfaces
- Ideal mix of beach fun, outdoor play, and convenient dining
3. Okinawa Comprehensive Park (沖縄県総合運動公園) – Okinawa City
🗺 Location: 5 Chome-3-1 Hiyagon, Okinawa, Nakagami District, Okinawa 901-2302
🚗 Parking: Free
This expansive 70 ha park features multiple play areas, roller slides, climbing nets, a pond with paddle boats, nature trails, 50 m and 25 m swimming pools, a field, gymnasium, and tennis courts for official competitions, rental bicycles, and a little creek. In the summer, splash fountains provide a refreshing escape, and the open lawns are perfect for sports, kite flying, and relaxing under the shade of the trees.
Top features:
- Adventure playgrounds for all ages
- Water play and pedal boats
- Large outdoor sports and activity areas
- Safe space for kids to practice biking
4. Toguchi Beach Park (渡具知ビーチ公園) – Yomitan Village
🗺 Location: 228 Toguchi, Yomitan, Nakagami District, Okinawa 904-0315
🚗 Parking: Free
Toguchi Beach Park offers a tranquil mix of coastal and play space. The playground, shaded by trees, includes slides, swings, and climbing frames and is quieter than city parks. Parents will especially appreciate the covered area dedicated to babies, as well as age-appropriate play zones for toddlers just learning to walk and older kids looking for more active fun. With something for every age group, family outings become less stressful and far more enjoyable. A paved coastal path makes the park stroller- and bike-friendly, while the peaceful beach setting adds to the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
Top features:
- Shaded playground by the beach
- Paved path for walking and biking
- Quiet, relaxed environment for leisure
5. Manta Park (マンタ公園／海邦公園) – Okinawa City
🗺 Location: 2 Chome-13 Kaiho, Okinawa, 904-2162
🚗 Parking: Limited spots on street nearby
Manta Park, officially known as Kaiho Park (海邦公園), is located in Okinawa City’s Kaiho district. This popular park features a 70 m roller slide from a lookout tower, offering scenic views of Nakagusuku Bay. A fun, long slide with moderate speed makes it safe and enjoyable for both children and adults.
Top features:
- Long roller slide with lookout tower featuring city and bay views
- Playground for younger kids with ladders, bridges, spring riders, and swings
- Spacious green lawn and paved loop ideal for tricycles, scooters, and strollers
- Full-size FIBA-style basketball court constructed in 2023.
- Fitness/health equipment for adults, doubling as a disaster shelter
- Toilets (including accessible), benches, gazebos, and vending machines
Before Going to the Park
- Pack: Water, hats, sunscreen, and snacks. Summer arrives early in Okinawa.
- Carry a trash bag: Most parks lack public trash cans—please take your trash home.
- Dress: Sneakers and other closed-toe shoes are best for playing.
Central Okinawa delivers an exceptional outdoor lifestyle for families. From the grand adventure playgrounds of Nakagusuku and Okinawa Comprehensive Park to the uniquely themed parks of Araha and Kaiho, each destination offers an exceptional experience.
Weekend adventures don’t require travel—just fill a picnic basket and grab your sunhat. You’re guaranteed memorable moments that blend play, culture, and the island’s natural beauty.
